Well that was a sweet, steamy, fun ride!  April and Theo meet in an unconventional way...she hires him to be her pretend boyfriend for a trip back home. But their make-believe quickly turns to reality when the anti-relationship pair immediately is attracted to one another and develops feelings that they can't deny.  

I'll admit, I'm not always a fan of insta-love but this book had so much dialogue and interaction that it flowed for me and I felt like they really did fall for each other in the short time.  Loved the sweet eplilgue too. And I didn't miss the nod to Nick's late night cartoon from Mister O too ;)

If you're looking for low angst, easy to read, and leaves you smiling then grab The Real Deal ❤️

I think I’ve made it clear that I am both a fan of the fake boyfriend trope and Lauren Blakely. So, when I saw a Lauren Blakely new release about a fake boyfriend on NetGalley? It felt like my birthday and Christmas all rolled into one. I about broke my finger 1-clicking that bad boy so fast. And I’m soooooo glad I did.

As with all her books, the banter between main characters April and Theo is all kinds of sweet and hilarious and hot. This author has a real talent for realistic, fun, flowing dialogue that very few others have. I enjoyed the hell out of every single back-and-forth between them.
This is also a rom-com that is actually FUNNY. You’d be surprised at how many books I’ve found being marketed in the rom com category that aren’t funny in the least. That kind of false advertising should be illegal. This book’s blurb calls it “Sophie Kinsella meets Jennifer Crusie”, and I can’t disagree. (And just so you know, I think Jennifer Crusie is a GODDESS, so that’s high praise)

The meddling family in this one wasn’t as annoying as meddling families can be in rom coms. The characters were all well fleshed out and interesting, and they clearly only had April’s happiness at heart, so their meddling was forgivable.

But while April was a great heroine that I can’t complain about, the real star of the book was Theo. He was smart and ridiculously hot and selfless in how he took on his brother’s burden without even being asked. He was also alpha without being a jerkwad, and the fact that he was so proud of April’s success and not at all threatened by it moved him from “good book boyfriend” territory into “all-time BEST book boyfriend” territory. Seriously. He’s THAT awesome.

Long-story-short, this is another winner from an author I adore. It’s the perfect beach read: light and fluffy, but still emotional, sexy, and sweet. It’ll give you all of the feels without breaking your heart. Can’t recommend this one highly enough.          
  
Full disclosure: We received an ARC from NetGalley, free of charge.

Ever since reading my first Lauren Blakely book (Big Rock) a couple of years ago, she has become my favorite contemporary romance author because I can count on her to deliver the most fun and most swooniest rom-coms featuring heroes you can't help but fall in love with and heroines you want to be BFFs with. It took a little bit because of formatting issues, but this is exactly what I got from The Real Deal.

Speaking of, before I get into my actual thoughts on the book, I have to say that I had a hard time reading the e-ARC because of formatting issues. The formatting was really off, it was very distracting and I couldn't fully immerse myself into the story until I sort of trained myself to ignore it. But, yeah, that sucked.

I don't know if it's because of the formatting issues, but it wasn't until almost the halfway point that I truly got into the story. April's character I did like right away. I thought her job was really cool, I liked her group of friends, and I loved that she has a great relationship with her family even though they drove her crazy with their matchmaking efforts and they don't really understand what she does. She's not without her personal issues, but she still has this sunny and happy personality that I really like and makes me want to be her BFF.

I guess my issue was with Theo. I liked him too, but it took me a while to connect with him because I couldn't understand what his deal was. You know he has a past and he's dealing with something big because he'd reveal little pieces or clues, and you're like, uh oh this boy is in trouble. But, what kind of trouble? *Shrug*

It took me a while to figure out Theo, and I think it's safe to say he'll never be one of my favorite Lauren Blakely heroes, but I still end up liking him. It's basically impossible to not like a Lauren Blakely hero or heroine. I rooted for him and April because they were a perfect match in humor and personality. Their thing was inventing sexually charged stories about their past as their foreplay and that was different, but perfect for their situation and amped up the tension and chemistry between them. The reunion competition was really fun, and I love how Theo charmed and won over April's family even though they were determined not to like him, still hoping they can set her up with a nice hometown boy so she'll move back home.

Overall, The Real Deal was another entertaining, fun, swoon-y, and just the right amount of feels to round out another satisfying read by the queen of rom-com contemporary romance. If you're in the mood for a sexy and fun romance read, look no further than The Real Deal.

What a great book! It was full of laughter and love. I enjoyed watching Theo and April navigate their fake relationship amongst her loving but overpowering family. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a lighter read that will keep you wondering what is real and what is fake.

I am sporting a big toothy grin with a side of doopey glee. The Real Deal has a snort inducing ad for the perfect guy. Don't mock me! I'm serious. I laughed my butt off (if only) reading that ad and personally would have gone to find said stud if April hadn't. 

The Real Deal is super cute with instant chemistry and off the charts storytelling. You can't help but be drawn into the story.

After reading the blurb for this book, I couldn’t wait to start this. The Real Deal has the perfect combination of laughter, some angst, romance, and fun. I enjoyed every moment of this story. The characters and the storyline were fantastic. Theo and April were great characters. I liked seeing how they grew as the story progressed-individually and together. Whenever they were together, it was always wonderful-they made sense as a couple and brought out the best in each other. What started out as just a boyfriend-for-hire gig turned into so much more. The chemistry between Theo and April was intense and seeing how they would navigate this and the onset of feelings was intriguing. I was excited to see how it would all play out. I also loved April’s family. They brought the entertainment for sure. It was the right amount of amusement to counteract the romance. Lauren always gives the best woo. The Real Deal is an awesome, swoony, and joyful read that will make you feel happy at the end.

Loved this one from start to finish! 

When April needs a date to her family reunion (to keep her family from setting her up with very guy they find), a friend of hers sends her an Ad for a boyfriend for hire. He can be anything you want. After all, you're paying for it  

Theo has strict rules when it comes to his clients. He does what they ask, and has been every character under the sun. He was not prepared for the role of a lifetime when he meets April and how much he wants to break his role. 

A cute rom-com that will have you begging for more. You can't help but root for this couple - even with all their situation is throwing at them. Could not put it down!

I am going to say something bold- out of all the Lauren Blakely books I have read and loved, The Real Deal is my new favorite! April and Theo were adorable together and I loved that their fake relationship began to feel so real to both of them so quickly- it was hard and fast! April's family was a hoot and their reunion contests were so fun to read about!  Full of chemistry and witty banter, The Real Deal was just plain fun to read. And I LOVED the Mister O Easter Egg at the end!

At the risk of sounding punny, I am pleased to report that Lauren Blakely's The Real Deal is exactly that -_- the real deal. It has funny banter, characters with rich backstories, a sexy non-perfect hero, & a spunky heroine.  But then one can usually count on these from Ms. Blakely.

April needs a stand-up fake boyfriend to go home for a family reunion. She's still happily single  & doesn't want to be set up with someone back home in her small Connecticut town. She enjoys New York city.  Theo is the quasi male escort (sort of) who comes to the rescue. His services are strictly platonic. 

Because this is a story woven by Ms. Blakely we know how that's going to end up but it's a joy watching these 2 fall for each other. I don't like giving away the story in my reviews. Suffice it to say there are laughs and a few years. We also get a nice reminder that falling in love can make us see hard truths about ourselves and makes us grow up. Both Theo & April discover this on their journey to HEA. That makes The Real Deal a bit more agnsty than a typical rom-com. I enjoyed every minute. 

Also look for the reference to a certain late night naughty cartoon.

Note: great secondary characters but  I adored big brother,  Heath. I want more of him & Lacey. Hint hint. 

Told in alternating first person, this is what I'd  call a slow-burn romance. Love scenes are sensual with just enough steam to make it interesting. The $7.99 ebook price concerns me. We will have to see if this impacts sales. 

Get The Real Deal asap. You won't regret it.

Such a cute book!! Absolutely loved it!! Each one of Lauren’s books are amazing and this one is the same. April is looking for someone to attend a family event with her because she knows if her family finds out she’s single they’ll start hooking her up with peoples left and right and that’s the last thing she wants. She had her good friend Xavier to fit the bill but something comes up and can’t help her out but doesn’t leave her in a bind he promises the new fill in will be great. April has no choice and needs someone and at this post my any guy will do.. 

Overall it was great it flowed the storyline worked there is amazing chemistry and plenty of passion throughout the book. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone!!

Omigosh, as Chandler Bing would say, "Could this book BE any cuter??"

April Hamilton is living the New York dream. She's got an active social life with great friends and she manages to make enough money to support herself comfortably by painting models for photo shoots and commercials. But her parents will never see her as more than a face painter. They want her to get married and settle down close to them in Connecticut.

So when it's time for the quadrennial family reunion April is NOT going home alone. It'll be a week of set ups and familial pressures. So she goes to Craigslist to hire a "boyfriend." Little did she know she'd end up with the real deal....

Theo is a bar tender who makes money on the side by being a professional fake boyfriend. He never gets intimate with the clients -- he's not a gigolo. But April makes it hard to keep t hings professional....

I loved this couple. April and Theo are great at improv, making up little stories of how their "relationship" functions.

“Remember that time I threw acorns at the window to get your attention?” he says tugging me closer, draping an arm around my waist.

“Yes. We had a fight. You wanted to climb through the window to make up with me.”

“I don’t like going to bed angry,” he says in a whisper.

Their banter is off the scales on the adorable chart! And the heat between them is palpable.

Theo has a checkered past, sure, but he's grown past it. Though he's not perfect, he is total book boyfriend material -- attentive, sweet, gorgeous, tatted up and with the sexiest voice.... Where can I sign up for my own Theo?

So much is made of Theo's voice that I longed to be listening to this in audio form, rather than reading it. I decided that no one could voice Theo as well as my favorite, Zachary Webber could. This morning I went to Audible to check and guess who is narrating Theo... Go ahead. Guess!!

I've read some other Blakely novels and I always enjoy them, but this one has got to be my favorite. I love the story idea, the way the relationship between the two unfolds. I did find it unlikely that a couple could fall in love in four days, but they were under unusual circumstances so... there's that. Forgiven. Plus Theo....

All in all, I'm giving this 4.5 stars because I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Fun story, well written, I liked that it was an entire book, not the first in a trilogy, etc. Cute characters, and I always love when a small town is one of the characters of a novel.

The Real Deal is a sweet romance, with all the feel good moments.  It’s a really cute, quirky and fun read about virtual strangers who stage a fake relationship.  April is an adorable character, she has a colorful personality and wears her heart on her sleeve. She has hired Theo to pose as her boyfriend during a family gathering, to keep her family meddling at bay. She hopes to ward off their efforts to find her a partner and to convince her to move back to her hometown. I absolutely loved Theo. Though at times, he broke my heart. He and his brother never had it easy. Their backstory was heartbreaking, and they made some questionable choices when they were strapped for cash.

Theo and April had undeniable chemistry. Their scenes were filled with sweetness, sexiness and emotion.  I loved to see them getting to know each other better and revealing their inner selves. Their fake relationship felt more and more like a real one. The author portrayed the evolution of their relationship in a realistic way. Their blossoming romance was believable. I was able to see them change throughout, both as individuals and as a couple. They pretend with other people, but they are honest with each other. I think it really added to their growing bond.

Lauren Blakely is an amazing writer and I need to read more of her work, her books are a little slice of romance heaven. This one was the perfect summer read!

I absolutely loved everything about this story! It is a unique and funny, slow burn romance, between two fascinatingly flawed characters, who aren't looking for love. April hires Theo to be her fake boyfriend for a family reunion so she can avoid the dates her family will push on her. From their very first meeting, their clever banter weaves a fictitious, yet romantic tale of how they met and fell in love. It continues throughout the story until neither can tell what is the real deal or the fantasy. But before the weekend is over, the fake stories and all the secrets begin to weigh heavy on them both. I loved the chemistry between April and Theo, they connected instantly, really seeing and understanding each other. They had me totally swooning and rooting for their HEA! The quirky relatives and the wacky family contests, also added a lot of fun and entertaining moments. Ms Blakely is a master at witty banter, and clever storylines with heart and this is definitely the Real Deal!

The Real Deal is Lauren Blakely's newest rom-com. I'm a huge fan of Lauren's and her books, as you know! The Real Deal has the feel of Lauren's first books. Sassy, sweet, sexy and fun. I adore Theo and April and I love this story! April needs a pretend date. Theo needs money to pay off an old debt. The perfect solution to both their problems. He's a great actor. She's fun and flirty. They fool everyone. And then they start to fool themselves. Their pretend stories feel real. Their accidental touches become intentional. Their fake feelings become real. But Theo has a secret. A past that he's not ready to confess yet. But he's a good guy. He's not the boy he used to be. Will April trust in their feelings when she finds out the truth? Can a fake boyfriend really become the real deal? I loved this story! So much! Their banter was so fun and sexy I was fanning myself. I loved Theo and his accents and his deep, sexy voice. April is one of my favorite heroines of Laurens. She's smart, talented, beautiful and I love her family! Overall, I laughed, cried, got hot and bothered and I already want more Theo!

After asking a friend to pose as her boyfriend, he gets a dream job and can't do it. Knowing she needs someone for the family reunion and it's only five days he asks a friend. Theo really needs the money. Well, April is the one in for the big surprise. She falls for Theo, but he hasn't been totally honest with her about who he is.  And after her last two boyfriends, she is not ready for more lies and more let down. Can April and Theo turn this into something special or will they go their separate ways when the job is done. I really like this story it was paced and humorous.

Lauren Blakely has done it again! What an incredibly sweet and charming love story about two people who find that pretending can sometimes be just as exciting as the real thing! Imagine a reversed Pretty Woman story...

In preparation of going home to see the family in Connecticut, April has decided that hiring a pretend boyfriend to keep the family off her back is the next best thing after her bestie stand-in has to bail for a job. Tired of being set-up with every guy her family comes across, all in hopes of leading her back to her hometown and everything she is not interested in... she heads to the family reunion with her Craigslist hired boyfriend on her arm and a great backstory.

Turns out, Theo is perfection from the moment they meet. Ready to create any story she requires, it's obvious the sparks fly immediately with these two. Creating fun backstories that feel all too real for a couple that met only a few days ago. 

Can't forget the family aspect here... some people have family and never see how wonderful they are and never know how good they have it. Some have no family and only dream of being "harassed" by those who love you and it was beyond heartwarming to watch such a loving group of people together. April clearly has a wonderful family and they so lovingly welcome Theo and his family into theirs. 

So heartwarming, this book brought a smile to my face over and over. Didn't want to put it down yet I didn't want it to end!? Such wonderful characters, I loved April's strength, and determination and listening to the two of them together was beyond adorable. Loved that she was so quick, funny and smart and he was just a sweetheart, afraid of his past, afraid of letting her down, afraid this would never be more than a fake weekend... boy was he wrong!?  ;-)  Highly recommended read and author!!

Family Reunion? Fake Boyfriend? Original plan totally fails? Check, check, and check! The Real Deal is the romantic comedy that you have been waiting for! An absolutely delightful read that warms your heart and makes you tingle all over. A charming story about two complete opposites with totally different goals, yet who fit so perfectly that you can help but root for the perfect HEA.

When April Hamilton’s BFF bails on her as her plus one/fake boyfriend to her family reunion, she thinks she is done for. She’ll have to endure the matchmaking and 100 questions from her well meaning family in Wistful, Connecticut. Lucky for her, said BFF has a back up plan… a boyfriend-for-hire named Theo.  Feeling desperate, she calls him, meets him, and “books” him. All is good right? Well she didn’t exactly count on Theo being SEXY as SIN… lol!

Theo Banks hasn’t had the easiest life but makes the most of his skills and what he has learned along the way. His side gig as a boyfriend-for-hire has turned out to be pretty good and since he always keeps things platonic, this next job shouldn’t be a problem. Uh… yeah sure.

I absolutely LOVED their first meeting (see excerpt below) and I absolutely LOVED that the sparks started flying from the beginning. But I think, what I LOVED the most, were April and Theo. Period. They were amazing… likable, relate-able, and just great all around. Every interaction between them had me smiling and every made up story they whispered to each other had me swooning. It was the real deal all along! Bottom line… The Real Deal delivers a the story that is witty, sweet, full of humor, and all-around swoony. A must read for all fans of RomComs!

I loved the style and flow of this book. The characters felt real and their storyline felt realistic. I loved the dynamic between Theo and April. The boyfriend for hire was genius. I’d love to see their story continue or have it turn into a series.

It pains me to say this but I’m not sure what happened that I just couldn’t connect with the story. Maybe it has to do with the fact that I read a super emotional story before I started this and the humor was lost on me because of it. But despite that I did find things I liked about this book. I liked that she had an unconventional job. I like his ability to adopt to any situation he’s thrown in since early age. I even liked her family trying to set her up with men so she would return home. I think if I re-read it in a couple of weeks I will have a different opinion about this story for now it’s a 3,5* for me. 

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***